CCTV surveillance cameras are a common feature in shopping malls, streets, banking halls and other places frequented by the public. Where they have been used in the past, CCTV cameras have been proven useful in preventing crime and apprehending perpetrators. Nonetheless, the use of CCTV surveillance systems is not only restricted to the areas mentioned above. In recent times, schools, colleges and universities are now considering the prospect installing these security devices within their campuses.
Realistically speaking, no place, academic institutions notwithstanding, is safe. Criminals can strike anywhere. Incidents of crimes that have taken place within school compounds are increasingly becoming common. CCTV cameras are, therefore, ideal for monitoring student movements within campus. Through video surveillance, exam supervisors can monitor students and identify those who are cheating. On the other hand, bullies can be apprehended easily and the vice eradicated. Bullies will think twice before picking on their victims because they will be aware that no matter what they do, someone is watching them closely.
Places where CCTV surveillance can be installed in schools include classrooms, stairways, hallways and school canteens or cafeterias. These are ideal locations for indoor cameras. Stepping outside, school
authorities should consider installing cameras in car parks and entrances.
Cases of drug abuse, trespass and vandalism of school property can be captured on camera, the victims
apprehended and disciplined. One major advantage with CCTV cameras is that they record events as they happen. In case concrete proof is needed, footage can be used to prove a point.
CCTV cameras in learning institutions will not only serve the purpose of keeping students on watch, they also monitor unauthorized people who enter and leave school premises undeterred. These cameras also help in observing how teachers, lecturers or tutors carry out their activities. With such surveillance measures in place, teaching and non teaching staff will ensure that they attend to their duties without fail. No teacher can miss classes and make claims to the contrary. Recorded footage can be replayed to verify such claims.
However, installation of CCTV cameras in schools and higher learning institutions must be approached in a systematic manner. School boards and parents must approve this. Where universities are involved, the decision to enhance security on campus should be done through consultation with faculty heads and student leaders. As the chief sponsor of public schools, the government also has a role to play.
On the face of it, every school, college or university has a set of rules that students should adhere to. In addition, teachers, lecturers and administrative tasks are supposed to be guided by professional ethics and other work related guidelines. This means that both students and staffs follow rules whether there are surveillance cameras or not. CCTV surveillance systems only serve to enhance their security. Thieves, bullies, vandals, strangers, drug abusers and sex pests are some of the major culprits surveillance cameras
in schools will help apprehend. The real motivation behind using CCTV cameras in learning institutions is to protect students while inside school campuses.
